A verse in Acts 1 says, "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Well, the ends of the earth are cool and all, but so is Jerusalem.
I have loved getting to know and spend time with my girls. There are about 20 of them, ranging from 6 to 17 years old. They’re wonderful, fun, difficult, funny and a little rough around the edges. It’s fairly laid back, and being an introvert, I thoroughly appreciate that. We have summer classes here like archery, swimming and ceramics and fun class trips that I attend with the girls. Most of my time is spent with the girls, doing whatever they feel like doing.
It’s been a little hard knowing just how much to push. Sporadically, I have moments of doubt wondering if I should be doing more than just building a relationship. Should I be speaking about spiritual things more often? Should I directly ask them what they think about Jesus?
After praying for wisdom, the Lord was faithful to respond. I have only been here two weeks. Building trust with these children who have been through so much takes a little more than a few days. I must be patient but intentional with these sweet girls. They will open up—not because I force them to, but out of the knowledge that I truly do care about them. This is where I have seen God at work—slowly and perfectly, orchestrating divine appointments, and brick by brick, removing barriers. Please join me as prayer warriors for the kids here at Texas Baptist Children’s Home.
Claire Pettibon, a student at the University of Texas, is serving with Go Now Missions at Texas Baptist Children’s Home, part of Children at Heart Ministries.
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